Bengaluru
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy unveiled plans for a strategic overhaul of Bangalore under the Brand Bangalore initiative, aiming to redefine the city’s identity and manage its rapid growth systematically. In a session at the Assembly, Congress MLA NA Harris queried the progress on Brand Bangalore and its associated study reports. Responding on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy outlined the initiative’s objectives. Bangalore, once recognized for its gardens, retirement haven, healthcare, and IT and educational prowess, is grappling with escalating population pressures. To reshape its image, Deputy Chief Ministers have spearheaded the ‘Brand Bangalore’ concept, collating feedback from diverse groups. We’ve gathered 70 thousand suggestions encompassing traffic management, environmental conservation, healthcare accessibility, citizen-friendly initiatives, education, technology, and water sustainability, explained Reddy. He elaborated on the roadmap, highlighting that suggestions from various institutions would undergo rigorous examination and subsequently be implemented to effect change. Reddy emphasized the formation of a comprehensive Bruhat Bengaluru Coordination Committee, steered by the Chief Minister, aimed at propelling Bangalore’s transformation. Responding to opposition critiques, Reddy defended the government’s commitment to planned urban development, emphasizing the need for collective cooperation. He countered allegations of stagnation, citing substantial government loans amounting to 25 thousand crores, allocated for city enhancement and ward grants. Reddy also refuted accusations regarding projects like Melsetuve, attributing opposition to the BJP’s stance on the Chalukya Circle flyover. The essence of Brand Bangalore lies in reshaping the city’s narrative, leveraging community input and systematic planning to drive holistic progress. Reddy reiterated the government’s determination to orchestrate Bangalore’s development in a methodical and inclusive manner, urging collaborative efforts across party lines for a sustainable and transformative urban future.
